Social Determinants of Women’s Occupational Preferences: An Empirical Study Conducted in Delhi NCR

Abstract

Little research has examined the societal biases that have impacted the female labour force participation in India. In this study the primary factor influencing women to join the workforce and societal perceptions reflected in gendered segregation of occupations were evaluated. With a questionnaire administered to a sample between ages of 18–50 years, data for the study was collected. The study shows that financial independence is the key to ensuring increased female workforce participation. It was also found that societal biases may lead to feminisation of certain occupations. The results can be used to suggest employment policy reforms in line with women’s capabilities and aspirations. Keywords: Women Labour, Workforce, Social Bias, Employment Policy, Gender, Occupational Preference